Special Events FAQ's

The type of activity that requires a Special Event Application to be completed is an event that is open to the general public; it can be held on public or private property; it may feature entertainment, amusements, food and beverages; it may be classified as a festival, road race, parade, or walkathon.  A special event of this size and nature does require a number of permits from various City departments before it is officially approved.

Please contact Annette Rodibaugh, Operations Manager/Special Event Committee Coordinator, and she will be happy to guide you through the process.

Applicants are asked the following questions in order for our staff to be able to ensure that they are given proper guidance during the planning process: location of event, date/ time, number of attendees expected, age group of participants/audience, type of event (ie road race, parade, walkathon, block party), presence of food or alcohol, live or amplified music, need for electricity, staging, amusements (rides, live animals, raffles), road closures and sidewalk obstructions.

In addition to Public Works, several different City departments provide support services and permits for special event, including the Cambridge Police, Traffic&Parking, Inspectional Services, Electrical , Fire , Recreation , and the License Commission .

In that case, you may be required to attend the monthly Special Events Committee meeting, where staff from multiple City Departments are available to meet with special event planners.

Under MGL 140 sec. 183 and Cambridge City Regulations, entertainment requires a One Day Entertainment License from the License Commission.

Under MGL ch. 183 sec. 14 and Cambridge Regulations, alcohol will require a One Day Alcohol License from the License Commission.  See the Alochol Rules and Regulations.

Under MGL ch. 810 Special Acts of 1969, you will need a Raffle/Bazaar License from the License Commission.

Under MGL ch. 140 sec. 181, a parade, carnival or festival requires a license through the License Commission.

You must complete a film permit application form. Upon review, you will be informed as to what permits would need to be secured.